Sunglasses

Here comes the sun – and with it, my running specs transform from science geek goggles to cool(ish) shades. So, stuff about running in shades.

Benefits of sunglasses

1. They keep the sun out of your eyes, reducing need to squint (and hence help to prevent laughter lines). And keeping UV rays out of your eyes is better for them.
2. They keep bugs & grit out of your eyes – especially appreciated by wearers of contacts.

Things to consider

1. Check that the pair you choose do have UV protection.
2. Big plastic will be better bug shields than small lenses. Wrap around styles give better peripheral vision – a good safety point and a novelty for me as my normal specs are much smaller.
3. Polarised lenses can help prevent glare.
4. Don’t go for too heavy a tint. If your run takes you through a darker area (e.g. under trees), you still need to be able to see. Mine are photochromatic, but can take a little while to adjust. Some sports sunglasses come with interchangeable lenses so you can select something appropriate for the conditions.
5. If you do find you can't see as it's got darker, use them as a headband instead. Sunglasses in the dark doesn't make for good health & safety.
6. Good running sunglasses stay put and don’t steam up. Do a bit of surfing to check how others have found different models before purchasing – and ask around your running buddies.
7. Online is often a cheaper option – especially for those of us who need prescription specs. Check returns policies though.
8. Check that your sunglasses/headphones/hat interface on your ears is comfortable before embarking on a run – you don’t want to get irritated en route!
9. Regular specs wearers will already know to keep them clean and wipe with a proper cloth (never a tissue).
10. The perfect sunglasses for you may not be specific for running. If you already run in a pair you love, don’t feel that you need to get a new pair just for running.